This book is about urgency—
if we don't act, what then?

Q: What inspired you to write this book?

I kept asking myself a simple but unsettling question: What will the world look like for our grandchildren? The environmental challenges we face are real and urgent, but there is also remarkable creativity and determination around the world. I wanted to explore both— the risks we face and the possibilities for building a better future.

Q: The title references “doughnut economics.” What does that mean?

The concept comes from Oxford economist Kate Raworth. Imagine a doughnut-shaped space where humanity can thrive. The outer boundary represents the limits of Earth’s ecosystems, and the inner boundary represents the basic social foundations people need to live well. The goal is to create economies that operate safely within that space.

Q: Your book describes serious environmental problems. Is it pessimistic?

Not at all. I’m clear-eyed about the challenges, but the book is fundamentally hopeful. Around the world, people are experimenting with new ideas in energy, agriculture, urban design, and more. These efforts show that change is possible.

Q: Who should read Dollars to Doughnuts?

Anyone who cares about the future of our planet— especially people who sometimes feel overwhelmed by the scale of the problem. The book offers ideas, examples, and resources to help readers see how they can contribute.

Q: What do you hope readers take away from the book?

A sense of urgency, but also possibility. The future isn’t predetermined. What we choose to do now matters enormously.